Gran Canaria: Red Gorge, Cave, Oasis Adventure Tour & Picnic

If you’re seeking a day away from the beach resorts and tourist crowds, this tour offers a wonderful way to connect with Gran Canaria’s authentic landscapes. It’s designed for those who enjoy short hikes, stunning viewpoints, and discovering hidden natural gems. With a passionate local guide leading the way, you’ll explore the island’s iconic ravines, ancient caves, and lush oases—all in a relaxed, small-group setting.

What we love about this experience? First, the focus on natural beauty and authentic Canarian towns provides a genuine taste of the island’s landscapes and culture, away from commercialized sights. Second, the delicious local tapas picnic makes for a memorable culinary highlight amid scenic surroundings. One possible consideration? Since the tour operates only outside the summer months, travelers visiting during June to September will need to find alternative adventures. This tour suits nature lovers, history buffs, and those craving a more laid-back, insightful day exploring Gran Canaria’s south.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Small group, personalized guidance, and visits to lesser-known spots.
• Stunning Landscapes: Spectacular views of a tuff ravine, caves, and mountain vistas.
• Cultural Insights: Visits to Canarian villages and aboriginal caves illuminate local history.
• Culinary Enjoyment: A cozy picnic featuring local Tapas and fresh fruits.
• Ease of Participation: No prior experience needed, just comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure.
• Practical Comfort: Air-conditioned transportation, pickup from key locations, and full insurance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Nature-Filled Day in Gran Canaria

This tour promises a fresh take on Gran Canaria, steering clear of the usual crowded spots to focus instead on the island’s spectacular geology and peaceful rural life. Designed for travelers who enjoy short, manageable hikes and want to see natural sights with expert guides, it’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic experiences in nature.

What makes this tour special? For one, it combines scenic beauty with local culture, making it more than just a walk in the woods. Plus, the small group size (limited to 7 participants) ensures plenty of personalized attention, making it easy to ask questions, take photos, and enjoy the journey at your own pace. The tour also features a local tapas picnic, a delicious way to savor Canarian flavors in an outdoor setting—and, based on reviews, the food doesn’t disappoint.

A word of caution: due to the summer heat, the tour is not available from June to September, so plan accordingly. Also, expect moderate walking—no extreme hiking experience required, but decent shoes are a must. Overall, if you’re seeking a relaxed, insightful, and scenic day in nature, this adventure is well worth considering.

Exploring the Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Starting Point and Pickups

Depending on your accommodation, you can be picked up in Las Palmas, Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, or nearby towns. The convenience of pickup directly at your lodging makes for a stress-free start. In the morning, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned van—an important feature after the drive through Gran Canaria’s often curving roads.

Barranco de las Vacas

Your first stop is at the spectacular Red Gorge (Barranco de las Vacas), a tuff ravine formed by natural forces over countless years. Here, we loved the way the guide described the landscape, emphasizing the power of nature and how such geological features tell stories of the island’s past. Expect a guided walk lasting about 40 minutes—easy enough for most, yet enough to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this natural marvel.

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Temisas Village and Aboriginal Caves

Next, you’ll visit the traditional Canarian town of Temisas, an authentic village where time seems to stand still. This stop offers a chance to soak in the peaceful rural lifestyle and see how locals have maintained their traditions. Afterward, you’ll explore aboriginal caves—ancient dwellings that reveal insights into the native people’s way of life 1500 years ago. The rocky paths involved here add a bit of adventure, and the caves serve as a tangible link to history, as some reviews highlight.

Oasis and Water-Related Paths

One of the tour’s most adventurous segments involves walking through a small oasis—a lush, green patch that contrasts sharply with the rugged surroundings. This spot is not just a picturesque photo opportunity but also an educational moment about local agriculture and water’s importance on the island. It’s a favorite among nature lovers, as it combines beautiful scenery with meaningful insights.

Santa Lucía de Tirajana

Our next stop was a photo break in Santa Lucía, a picturesque town with traditional Canarian charm. The guide shared stories about local life, and travelers appreciated the relaxed pace and authentic atmosphere. You might also have a chance for a quick food tasting—another highlight praised in reviews for its authenticity.

Scenic Viewpoints and Panoramas

The final part of the tour features scenic overlooks, including a viewpoint with sweeping vistas of the southern mountains. Here, you’ll get the best photo opportunities of the landscape’s grandeur, making it a perfect way to wind down the day.

Return Trip

After a full day of exploration, you’ll head back to your accommodation, with plenty of digital photos—an included bonus—and memories of a truly diverse outdoor experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price encompasses hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, a picnic, and digital photos, it’s the quality of the experience that stands out. Each stop feels deliberately chosen for its aesthetic appeal and cultural significance, not just convenience. The small group size enhances interaction, and the knowledgeable guides bring stories and details that enrich the scenery.

The local tapas picnic is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to taste Canarian flavors in a natural setting, often cited as a highlight by past guests. When you factor in the full insurance, transportation, and personalized guidance, the tour offers excellent value for those seeking a relaxed, educational, and scenic day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those who want a genuine, less touristy experience. It suits travelers with moderate walking fitness, but no strenuous hiking experience is necessary. The tour’s focus on authentic landscapes and local life makes it a wonderful choice for anyone looking to see a different side of Gran Canaria—away from busy beaches and crowded viewpoints.

If you enjoy small-group tours, personalized attention, and meaningful cultural insights, you’ll find this experience exceptionally rewarding. Families with children over 6 are welcome, but those with mobility challenges or afraid of heights might find some parts less suitable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old can join, but keep in mind that some rocky paths and caves involve uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are essential. It’s a day out in the sun, so proper sun protection will make your experience more enjoyable.

Does the tour operate in summer?
No, due to the high temperatures, this tour is unavailable June through September. Check other tour options during those months.

How long is the total tour?
Starting from Las Palmas, expect around 9 hours including pickups, driving, stops, and return.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a new, air-conditioned van to keep travelers comfortable during the drives.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local Tapas picnic with a soft drink and fresh fruits is part of the experience.

Do I need any hiking experience?
No, just moderate walking fitness. The walks are short (15-20 minutes each stop), and routes are accessible for most.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?

For travelers eager to see Gran Canaria’s natural landscapes and hidden treasures in a relaxed, small-group setting, this tour offers an excellent balance of scenery, culture, and comfort. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences—like tasting regional foods and exploring aboriginal caves—without the hassle of strenuous hikes or large crowds.

The guides’ knowledge, the stunning views, and the delicious picnic combine to create a memorable day. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and culturally enriching adventure, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a thoughtful choice for anyone wanting a meaningful connection with the island’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for great photos and relaxed storytelling along the way.

To sum it up, this adventure is more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to see the real Gran Canaria through its landscapes, history, and flavors. Suitable for curious travelers with a moderate fitness level, it offers a peaceful yet enriching escape into nature, crafted by passionate guides who love sharing their island. If that sounds like your ideal day, this tour will not disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: